Program Contents: 42 minute DVD. Includes Teacher's Resource Book and Student Handouts with Pre/Post-Tests.

Captioning: Closed Captioned

Copyright Date: 2008

AVAILABLE IN THE US ONLY

This three-part series relies upon familiar situations to teach young viewers many essential communication skills. Engaging vignettes demonstrate the importance of listening attentively, making eye contact, asking questions for clarification, and being respectful of others. The series also helps young viewers understand the importance of the non-verbal messages that we send through our body language and tone of voice. A wide range of age-appropriate tips are offered for how to become a better speaker and listener.

Part 1, Now That’s Good Listening, reminds viewers that being a good listener requires more than just the ability to hear. Good listeners use their ears, eyes and brains. Listening means stopping what you are doing, looking at the speaker, paying attention to verbal cues or “signal phrases” that alert you to important information, repeating what you have heard in your own words, and asking question to clarify.

Part 2, Now That’s Good Speaking, introduces topics such as using an appropriate tone of voice, sticking to a simple, uncluttered message, avoiding slang, maintaining emotional control and more. Special attention is given to how awkward body language—such as squirming or avoiding eye contact—can alter or contradict our spoken words. Tips include taking a deep breath, planning your words ahead of time and using “I” messages.

Part 3, Communication Spoilers, sheds light on many common problems in communication—such as interrupting, criticizing, creating distractions, monopolizing the conversation or ignoring what others are saying. Viewers are reminded that good communication is only possible when we all respect one another. Other examples of communication spoilers are provided: argumentative speakers who blame or criticize others, and those who resort to name-calling instead of productive dialogue.